How to Get a Naturopathic Degree

Overview

Naturopathy falls under the realm of alternative medicine and revolves around vitalism. Vitalism proposes that there is a special life energy that governs all internal and external bodily functions. Naturopathy posits that a special vital energy exists within all of us that is responsible for carrying out bodily functions such as growth, reproduction, metabolism, healing, adaptation and so on.

One can say that naturopathy sides with a holistic approach to the treatment of illnesses and relies on noninvasive methods. There is also minimum or zero usage of drugs and pharmaceutical medicines. Practitioners of naturopathic medicine are usually trained in a variety of areas such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage and a variety of other natural remedies. If you feel you have what it takes to become a naturopathic doctor then you should dedicate a portion of your time to getting a degree in naturopathy.

Importance of Education

Getting a solid and recognized degree in naturopathy is necessary if you wish to make a successful career out of it. A degree in your desired field gives you the necessary academic training and exposure you need to reach new heights. Educational achievements open doors and provide opportunities in terms of progression, promotions, advancements and personal development.

Job hunters and potential employers may prefer resumes that are decorated with academic accomplishments and qualifications. This is because a degree can attest to the student’ hard work, dedication and ability to learn. Therefore, if you feel that you can add value to the economy and the health of patients, you need to gain adequate training and academic qualification by way of education.

Degree Options and Requirements

There are a number of degrees available for naturopathy medicine at the undergraduate and graduate level. Be sure to thoroughly research through every degree and institute so that you are working towards the right degree. Each degree has a set of requirements and prerequisites that may also vary from program to program – so it is necessary you read up on each detail.

To get into a bachelor’s program in naturopathy, it is recommended that students have some prior exposure or background in the health sciences at the high school level. Although this background is not necessary, it is helpful. Most of the necessary academic training is provided to students at this level.

Some courses that students may come across are homeopathy, vitalism, herbal medicine, anatomy, physiology, stress management, acupuncture, and many similar areas. With a bachelor’s in naturopathy, one can enter the industry at the assistant’s level or even the research level and then gradually work their way up to management level.

A master’s in naturopathy is a viable option for those who are interested in progressing further into the field. To get into a master’s program in naturopathy, you need to have a bachelor’s in the same field from a reputable school. Some practical experience in the form of internships or research work may be a necessary prerequisite depending on the program requirements.

A doctorate in naturopathic medicine is also available for students who are looking to go the extra mile and really climb the ranks. This is usually a comprehensive 4 year program that eventually leads to licensing after which a licensed naturopathic physician is born. To enter a 4 year doctorate program in naturopathic medicine, candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized educational institute.

Career Outlook

Naturopathic medicine has gradually made its way onto the map in the medical industry. Noninvasive remedies and those that rely on holistic approaches are becoming popular in this day and age. Furthermore, with the increasing average age of the population, holistic medical approaches are preferred. The demand for naturopathic doctors is forecasted to increase by the year 2018 with nearly 24,000 new jobs which translates to an increase of about 9.55% over the coming years (recruiter.com). Florida, Maryland, California have currently a large number of practicing naturopathic doctors.

Salary Prospects

According to a source (recruiter.com), the annual average salary of a naturopathic physician falls between the range of $56,000 and $84,000 depending on the level of experience and tenure. A naturopathic working privately as a self-employed person has the potential to earn much greater than one who is salaried. South Carolina currently offers the highest salaries for naturopathic physicians (recruiter.com). This is a field were experience and marketing play a great role in determining ones earning potential.

Further Reading

The websites below should serve as reliable references for you should you wish to research into naturopathy medicine further. These websites will also provide information on industry norms and practices which should help you prepare for the future.

Logan is a non-profit university founded in 1935. Logan University has remained grounded in chiropractic education, while continuously enriching academic options with degree offerings in health sciences since 2012.